Can cross Richie off that list. There's another $6.67mil. This also doesn't account for the increase in cap payroll that will come, which could be anywhere from $4M-$7M, especially with that rich new deal the NHL just struck with Rogers. We have a ton of players to sign, but I don't htink it will be as drastic as it seems.

I can't see anyone taking on that kind of contract. They still have the ability to amnesty him, but if he plays well, and the cap goes up as much as everyone is saying, it might be better to just keep him and save the amnesty clause.

Of our current forwards that need to be signed, I think the only ones that are essential are Cally, Kreider, and Brassard. I also think we should sign Zuccs but I wouldn't say he's essential. I think he'll probably get signed though, cuz the guy loves being a Ranger and it's not about the money with him. He'd rather get paid below his value than leave. Could be wrong, but I'd like to think I'm not.

Por que? Not saying you're wrong, just curious. I did because we're pretty much definitely going to buy Richie out, and Brass has the potential to become a really solid second line center behind Stepan. I'm open to dissenting arguments though.

Brass has flashes of intelligence, but for the most part has shown he is expendable. I like the kid, but I just don't view him as someone we couldn't somewhat easily replace. I doubt it will take much to resign him, so it probably won't be an issue. I'd send him on his way though for the right reasons.

Fair enough. He could be replaced by the right player, but it all depends if there's someone available who fits that profile come the offseason. I just think given our history of questionable trades/signings, it would be a far smarter/safer move to sign him again rather than risk winding up getting stuck with a bust as our 2nd line center. Plus, I think he's been getting better and better as the season progresses, and will only continue to do so the more he plays with our team and develops chemistry. I personally think our struggle for consistency has a lot to do with our radical roster changes from season to season, and the more players we keep consistent, the more consistent the team will play.

So are we going to re-up Girardi? He's kind of stuggled this year, including putting multiple pucks in our net. If so, how much do you think he'll command? And if not, should we move him at the deadline, and what should we get in return?